Sideline Group Raises $155 Million to Invest in the ‘Offline’ Economy

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sideline Group announced the close of its debut fund, Sideline Group Fund I (“Fund I”), with $155 million in committed capital to Fund I and its affiliated investment vehicles. Sideline is an investment firm that partners with culture-setting brands and experiences at the intersection of consumer, sports, and media & entertainment.

Fund I is backed by a diverse group of institutional investors, including a leading US university endowment, funds of funds, and family offices, as well as sports team owners, investment firm founders, and operators. The fund substantially exceeded its initial fundraising target.

In a world flooded with screens and algorithms, Sideline has focused on the offline, physical world. People are increasingly seeking community and in-real-life connection, at a moment when hybrid work and AI are reshaping leisure time. Businesses tied to healthier, active lifestyles and events and experiences are poised to benefit, and Sideline’s portfolio and ongoing research efforts reflect this conviction.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Sideline was founded by Greg Mazlin, who began his career as a private equity investor at Silver Lake before spending nearly a decade at Tiger Global as a Partner investing in public equities across the consumer sector. Prior to launching Sideline, Mazlin was an active individual investor, including investments in the Miami Heat and Athletic Brewing.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Mazlin’s experience, and the backgrounds of the early Sideline team members – spanning Blackstone, Permira, Stripes Group, and Boston Consulting Group – reflect Sideline’s rigorous approach to due diligence and investing.

Fund I has made several investments to date, including: Bandit Running, a community-driven performance running brand; Urban Golf Performance, a premium golf training and fitness concept; MARI, the global events company behind the Miami Open and Madrid Open; and Milky Way Park, a platform for adventure sports and experiences.

Sideline Group

Sideline Group is a New York-based investment firm focused on the Offline Economy, backing culture-setting brands and experiences at the intersection of consumer, sports, and media & entertainment. Sideline partners with growth-stage businesses tied to healthier, active lifestyles, and events and experiences.